X Factor: Fame will always bring problems

Contestants must determine for themselves whether they can cope with reality television contests like The X Factor, says Michael Deacon.

A man with Asperger syndrome, Scott James, is to sing in the new series of The X Factor, which starts tonight. Critics will say that such shows put unfair pressure on vulnerable contestants, and that there will be more Susan Boyle-style breakdowns.

That's certainly possible, but I'd like to hear how these critics would solve the problem, short of dropping the show (which ITV can't afford to do). If nobody who's struggled with mental health can be subjected to the stresses of fame, does that mean channels should stop hiring Stephen Fry, who suffers from bipolar disorder? Contestants must determine for themselves whether they can cope. It's not for producers – or nannying critics – to decide what's best for them.